On October 13 and 14, 2026, the Palais des Congrès at Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire hosted the very first edition of the National Shea Fair (SNKA 2026). Organized by the National Federation of Cooperatives in Côte d’Ivoire’s Shea Sector (FENKACI), in collaboration with the Cotton, Cashew and Shea Council (CCAK), this landmark event focused on a crucial theme: “What kind of ecosystem is needed to ensure the sustainable development of Côte d’Ivoire’s shea sector?” True to its commitment to promoting Ivorian agricultural commodities, SONES SA took part in this strategic event, which marks a decisive turning point for the rural economy and agricultural trade.
The solemn opening ceremony highlighted the importance that the country’s highest authorities attach to this “white gold.” The event was held under the High Patronage of Mrs. Dominique Ouattara, First Lady of Côte d’Ivoire; the Patronage of Mr. Téné Birahima Ouattara, Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Defence; and the Presidency of Mr. Bruno Nabagné Koné, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Food Crops. The attendance of numerous institutional dignitaries, including members of the CCAK Executive Board and the President of FENKACI, Mrs. Koné-Kouadio Minafoun Pinguey, reaffirmed their shared commitment to sustainably structuring this high-potential sector.
One of the key highlights of the fair was the announcement by CCAK Director General, Mr. Mamadou Berté, that the regulatory framework already successfully implemented for cotton and cashew would be extended to the shea sector. This comprehensive reform will focus on identifying and profiling all stakeholders involved in marketing, introducing traceability tools for purchasing and export operations, and strengthening governance to ensure transparency and competitiveness. This initiative also aims to protect and enhance the essential role of women, who are the driving force behind shea collection and processing in Côte d’Ivoire.
As a key player in the trading and matchmaking of agricultural commodities (cashew nuts, cocoa, and coffee), SONES SA welcomes this significant milestone. The participation of our teams in SNKA 2026 reaffirms our vision: to build strong, ethical, and transparent partnerships from the farm to the international market. In line with the event’s theme — Mobilize, Transform, Connect, Innovate — SONES SA continues to explore new opportunities to support the sustainable development of Côte d’Ivoire’s agricultural value chain.
SONES SA (Société Négoces et Services) is a public limited company (SA) with a Board of Directors, specializing in commodity trading, processing, and the export of agricultural products. As a key player in the agribusiness and agri-food industries, we operate with expertise at the heart of strategic value chains for Côte d'Ivoire's economy.
